1953 “gasser” deuce build thread/ adventure

[silverbullet72tnt]

Picking up a 53 studebaker Reo gasser deuce, need towing advice, and learning advice

Hey everyone,

Picking up my first deuce, it was basically free, its a 53 (I think) Studebaker (I think) with a gas motor. I have to have it towed about five miles. The wrecker company is going to use an C6500 with a wheel lift to get it here. They are gonna lift front wheels and tow it. Do I need to pull a driveshaft? I've read the sprags (Not sure what case it has yet, only see outside) only engage when power is applied, and that for a short tow like I need they will be ok, but I have also read otherwise.

Also, Im not sure I am in the right section, seem to see alot of GMC based trucks in this forum, so if this is the wrong place to post this please let me know.

I am still very much in the learning process for this cool old truck. I am well versed in willys jeeps and such, but I kind of fell into this deuce by accident and I am pretty excited to dig into it.

Heres what I know for sure:
1) Its been converted atleast partially to 12v, and has a GM one wire alternator on it

2) Was a forestry truck for most of its life, so I imagine mileage is pretty low, its certainly rust free

3) No bed on it, was a tank truck

4) Hasnt run in about ten years

5) has what I believe to be civilian plug wires and dist. cap on it

6) Has a tin top!

I am looking for advice on where to get a carb kit, plugs, wires, cap, rotor, points, condensor etc to try and get it running.

When I get it back to my shop, I'll be sure to post pics

 

[porkysplace]

Welcome to SS.
If it is a 53 Studebaker or Reo it should probably be in the deuce forum , maybe a moderator will move it.
https://www.steelsoldiers.com/forumdisplay.php?20-The-Deuce
Do you have any pictures ?
you can download the TM's here
[h=1]TM's for the Deuce[/h]Start with reading this one.
TM9-2320-209-10-1.pdf
TM9-2320-209-10-1 Operation, Installation and Reference data for the M35 series, Operator Level.

These are early Tm's for the M34/M35's
TM9-2320-209-10
[URL="http://www.jatonkam35s.com/Earlym34-35/TM9-2320-209-20-2.pdf"]TM9-2320-209-20-2
TM9-2320-209-20-3
[/URL]

 

[silverbullet72tnt]

Thanks, are these manuals available in print? I have a hard time staring at a computer screen for too long

 

[porkysplace]

Thanks, are these manuals available in print? I have a hard time staring at a computer screen for too long

Probably easier to download them to a disc and take it to Staples/ Officemax or a printer and have them print them , especially the 3 older ones . You could put a want ad in the classifieds and see if anybody has any for sale . Maybe hit-up
Evil Dr. Porkchop he is in Maine and might be a parts source for you.

 

[gringeltaube]

Hey everyone,

Picking up my first deuce, it was basically free, its a 53 (I think) Studebaker (I think) with a gas motor. I have to have it towed about five miles. The wrecker company is going to use an C6500 with a wheel lift to get it here. They are gonna lift front wheels and tow it. Do I need to pull a driveshaft? I've read the sprags (Not sure what case it has yet, only see outside) only engage when power is applied, and that for a short tow like I need they will be ok, but I have also read otherwise....

No need to pull the DS - as long as the front wheels are off the ground and can spin freely, because they will... both or one at least, due to the differential action. And because there is a sprag T-case, and the rear wheels will send power through it and all the way to the front axle/wheels.

Also, Im not sure I am in the right section, seem to see alot of GMC based trucks in this forum, so if this is the wrong place to post this please let me know.

No problem; moved it.

I am still very much in the learning process for this cool old truck. I am well versed in willys jeeps and such, but I kind of fell into this deuce by accident and I am pretty excited to dig into it.

It's just another Jeep, only that everything is bigger and much heavier!

G.

 

[dmetalmiki]

Welcome to the site, hobby, friendships and events to come..(when the truck is restored to your satisfaction). Do post pictures of your journey home with it , and as restoration progresses.

 

[Tracer]

Clean rust free gassers are hard to come by especially when they're free. The membership here will have many of the parts you need. Good Luck

 

[gimpyrobb]

If your worried about the front wheels spinning, just pull the spline caps off.

3/4 socket n ratchet.

 

[silverbullet72tnt]

If your worried about the front wheels spinning, just pull the spline caps off.

3/4 socket n ratchet.

Good to know, that's easier than laying in snow taking out drive shaft!

Thanks everyone else for all the insight. Cant wait to get it to the shop and start tearing into it

 

[RodUSMC1962]

I have a 52 Studebaker gasser, I would help you in any way I can. By the way, my truck is for sale ,getting to old to climb up and check the oil.

 

[silverbullet72tnt]

I have a 52 Studebaker gasser, I would help you in any way I can. By the way, my truck is for sale ,getting to old to climb up and check the oil.

I appreciate the help offer, you guys seem like a decent group considering I only joined this site a couple days ago

 

[SCM35A2]

Welcome to the site.

 

[603hellmutt]

Welcome from the southern part of the state!

 

[Crazyguyla]

For towing, You could always put the transmission and transfer in neutral. My gasser was missing the front drive shaft when I bought it. Guess someone didn't like the sprag transfer case snapping back on them. What carburetor is on your gasser?

Marcus

 

[Recovry4x4]

My "Go to" parts source, especially for gassers, is White Owl in Kinston NC. When you figure out what you need, pick up the phone and give them a ring.

 

[silverbullet72tnt]

So how gutless is the gasser compared to a multi? Ive read a few threads on here that they are about the same, except on long hills onroad. I dont planning on driving this thing very far, maybe 25 miles at most from home. The gas motor was one of the selling points for me (selling points still count if it was free?)

I do like oddball stuff, so I m hoping this truck and I will get along lol

 

[silverbullet72tnt]

Welcome from the southern part of the state!

Hello!

 

[silverbullet72tnt]

For towing, You could always put the transmission and transfer in neutral. My gasser was missing the front drive shaft when I bought it. Guess someone didn't like the sprag transfer case snapping back on them. What carburetor is on your gasser?

Marcus

it will be getting towed on a stinger with front wheels locked on a lift, will the neutral trick still work or should I pull the hubs still?

Not sure what carb is on it, I looked at it in the dark.

 

[rcflyer70]

So how gutless is the gasser compared to a multi? Ive read a few threads on here that they are about the same, except on long hills onroad. I dont planning on driving this thing very far, maybe 25 miles at most from home. The gas motor was one of the selling points for me (selling points still count if it was free?)

I do like oddball stuff, so I m hoping this truck and I will get along lol

I've had my 53 gasser for 23 years and can say enough positive things about it. I've driven it everywhere and it starts faithfully every time. As far as being gutless - yes they are, especially compared to my M52A2 multifuel.
I suggest you change the spark plugs, thoroughly check the spark plug cables (to include both ends), points, distributor, capacitor and coil (I was lucky enough to find the entire sealed setup from Memphis Equipment). These parts definitely added new life.

Anything you need help with, just let me know!

 

[gringeltaube]

it will be getting towed on a stinger with front wheels locked on a lift, will the neutral trick still work or should I pull the hubs still?

In that case you definitely need to pull the splined hubs - or the front propeller shaft - or the first rear propeller shaft.
Putting the TC in neutral does NOT disconnect the front output shaft!